LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in West Footscray, VIC

Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Emily Barber
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
0420 558 547 View 0420 558 547
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424

More Therapists Nearby

max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Brunswick, VIC 3056
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
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Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Welcome— I’m Jessica, a holistic counsellor and meditation therapist. I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety. In addition to nine years of private practice counselling, lived experience with chronic illness and decades spent as a classical ballet dancer inform my gentle, compassion-focused therapeutic work. I am passionate about creating meaningful change for individuals and their loved ones, and I am so grateful to be living my ikigai.
My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Welcome— I’m Jessica, a holistic counsellor and meditation therapist. I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety. In addition to nine years of private practice counselling, lived experience with chronic illness and decades spent as a classical ballet dancer inform my gentle, compassion-focused therapeutic work. I am passionate about creating meaningful change for individuals and their loved ones, and I am so grateful to be living my ikigai.
(07) 5240 9171 View (07) 5240 9171
Stina Boro
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
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Mig Zvirblyte
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m down-to-earth, authentic and curious. My aim is to offer a warm, affirming space where you can show up as your whole self— without pressure to fit a particular mould. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you, and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have before getting started.
I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m down-to-earth, authentic and curious. My aim is to offer a warm, affirming space where you can show up as your whole self— without pressure to fit a particular mould. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you, and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have before getting started.
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Kenny Dao
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Moorabbin, VIC 3189
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
(03) 8771 5313 View (03) 8771 5313
Ru Connolly
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Online Only
I’m Ru, an Integrative Psychotherapist. Psychotherapy supports both the processing of distressing experiences and the development of self-actualisation and insight. My approach is grounded in attachment and developmental perspectives, as well as systems and psychodynamic theories. I am guided by trauma-informed principles and use somatic practices. I work extensively with personality disorders and CPTSD.
I’m Ru, an Integrative Psychotherapist. Psychotherapy supports both the processing of distressing experiences and the development of self-actualisation and insight. My approach is grounded in attachment and developmental perspectives, as well as systems and psychodynamic theories. I am guided by trauma-informed principles and use somatic practices. I work extensively with personality disorders and CPTSD.
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El Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
(02) 9100 0596 View (02) 9100 0596
InHeart
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
You’ve just heard the words “cancer” or “brain tumour,” and suddenly life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or surreal. Maybe you’re trying to stay strong for everyone else while falling apart inside. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, recovering, or living with ongoing impacts, you don’t have to face it alone. I work along side people navigating these challenges, offering a space to feel seen, heard, and gently supported through whatever this chapter brings. You don’t have to do it alone. I’ll walk beside you with compassion, honesty, and care as you find your way through.
You’ve just heard the words “cancer” or “brain tumour,” and suddenly life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or surreal. Maybe you’re trying to stay strong for everyone else while falling apart inside. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, recovering, or living with ongoing impacts, you don’t have to face it alone. I work along side people navigating these challenges, offering a space to feel seen, heard, and gently supported through whatever this chapter brings. You don’t have to do it alone. I’ll walk beside you with compassion, honesty, and care as you find your way through.
(07) 2801 7169 View (07) 2801 7169
Andrew Macdonald
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren't helping, or struggling in your relationship? Maybe you look like you're coping on the outside, but inside feel exhausted, disconnected or uncertain about what to do next. I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is supportive and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren't helping, or struggling in your relationship? Maybe you look like you're coping on the outside, but inside feel exhausted, disconnected or uncertain about what to do next. I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is supportive and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
(03) 7003 2204 View (03) 7003 2204
Zane Bouillet
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
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Lette Jewell
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Waitlist for new clients
We offer affirming, trauma-informed support for ADHD, autism, AuDHD, late-diagnosed, queer, trans and genderfluid people.
As a Māori-European, neurodivergent, queer therapist offering somatic, trauma-informed, culturally grounded care. We support ADHD, autism, and body-based experiences, including all feminine presenting concerns, PMDD, perimenopause, emotional regulation challenges, and anxiety—our work centres on whole-body awareness, balance, and meaningful change.
We offer affirming, trauma-informed support for ADHD, autism, AuDHD, late-diagnosed, queer, trans and genderfluid people.
As a Māori-European, neurodivergent, queer therapist offering somatic, trauma-informed, culturally grounded care. We support ADHD, autism, and body-based experiences, including all feminine presenting concerns, PMDD, perimenopause, emotional regulation challenges, and anxiety—our work centres on whole-body awareness, balance, and meaningful change.
0452 064 983 View 0452 064 983
Lee Taube
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I am trans masculine (they/them pronouns), the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist, and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and am an internationally certified Emotion Focused Therapist (EFT). I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
I am trans masculine (they/them pronouns), the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist, and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and am an internationally certified Emotion Focused Therapist (EFT). I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
(03) 7003 2505 View (03) 7003 2505
Allison Browning
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
My practice is proudly LGBTQIA and neurodiversity affirming, and grounded in curiosity and compassion.
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
My practice is proudly LGBTQIA and neurodiversity affirming, and grounded in curiosity and compassion.
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
(02) 4504 0207 View (02) 4504 0207
KIT Psychology - Michelle Maya
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Hello I'm Michelle. In my practice, I work alongside young people & adults to support them in navigating life’s challenges, achieving desired improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, relationships and life circumstances. I have a gentle, compassionate nature and provide a comfortable, discreet space where my clients feel safe and supported to share, grow and connect with inner wisdom. My approach is intuitive, flexible and strengths-based, often solution-focused and always person centered around an individual’s unique interests, values and hopes for the future.
Hello I'm Michelle. In my practice, I work alongside young people & adults to support them in navigating life’s challenges, achieving desired improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, relationships and life circumstances. I have a gentle, compassionate nature and provide a comfortable, discreet space where my clients feel safe and supported to share, grow and connect with inner wisdom. My approach is intuitive, flexible and strengths-based, often solution-focused and always person centered around an individual’s unique interests, values and hopes for the future.
(03) 4320 5400 View (03) 4320 5400
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.